The WOW Factor

Here is a photo sent in by New Member, Liz. I thought it would be fun to give a bit of background on these tree monuments we so often find at the cemeteries.
                                                                           
The Woodsman of America was founded in the 1800s as a fraternal benefit society. It was an attempt to bring people from differing backgrounds/beliefs together. Over the years, it grew into a multi-billion dollar entity. The name has had a few changes in its time, and is currently the Woodsmen of the World (WOW).
The tree monuments began as a benefit for the society members. $100 would buy you a rider plan that provided you with the stone marker upon your passing. Although it was used by others prior to the formation of the WOW, it is most commonly known for the fraternity's use.
The basic "template" for the tree stone would be sent to the local masonry expert in the hometown of the member who had passed, and the family would add features to the original design to personalize it. Some added features are: axe, wedges, mauls, and other woodworking tools. Branches were sometimes broken to symbolize the passing of each family member.

Thank you for the interesting photo, Liz!